Some Important Insects

The colored picture sheets that follow illustrate a selected group of insects that are commonly found in the United States. Some are of great economic importance. Information is provided on the distribution, habits, nature of damage caused, and methods of preventing or controlling the infestations.

It is hard here to give recommendations that will apply equally well throughout the country: Variations in crop practices, soils, and weather conditions cause insect problems to be much more acute in one area than another, and frequently different control measures and timing therefore are required. Accordingly it is often wise to consult county agents, State officials, or other authorities to ascertain which methods and procedures would be most satisfactory to use locally. Their addresses are given in the appendix. Although greatest reliance is placed upon insecticides for the control of injurious insects today, one should remember that other methods of control are important.

The primary aim today, however, should be the development of practices that will prevent insects from causing damage to crops.

Our hope is that these pictures will enable the reader to recognize the most destructive insects and stimulate him to apply effective control measures promptly. Such action results in economical control. Cooperative community and widespread control programs have an important place in safeguarding our people's health and supply of food and fiber. Insect control is also an integral part of the increased food production that is vitally needed during emergency periods for our own welfare and to fulfill commitments made to other free countries of the world.

All the insecticides here recommended to control the insects pictured are poisons. Handle them with caution. Follow carefully the directions and warnings given on the containers. Store insecticides in plainly labeled, closed containers, in a dry place away from food products, and where children or animals cannot reach them.

When mixing or applying insecticides, avoid inhaling dusts or sprays. Protect the hands with leather or rubber gloves. Keep the hands away from the mouth and wash them thoroughly before eating. Bury any waste material. Thoroughly wash out containers that have been used in mixing insecticides.

Oils used in making insecticide solutions are inflammable. Do not mix or apply them near an open flame.